<h1>Maharashtra to Expand MSRTC Fleet with 25,000 New Buses by 2029; 14.95% Fare Hike Approved Amid Criticism.</h1> The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) plans to acquire 25,000 buses over the next five years, purchasing 5,000 annually, as confirmed by the Transport Minister. This initiative, approved by the state finance minister, aims to expand MSRTC's fleet to 30,000 buses, including 5,000 electric buses, by 2029. The current fleet includes 14,300 buses, with 10,000 over a decade old set to be scrapped. Additionally, the Maharashtra State Transport Authority has approved a 14.95% fare hike, which has faced criticism from opposition leaders. The Transport Minister claimed unawareness of the fare revision until informed by media.